Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Neglect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "neglect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
怠る
おこたる (okotaru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
おろそかにする
おろそかにする (orosoka ni suru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "neglect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 怠る and おろそかにする.
In Japanese, 怠る (おこたる (okotaru)) is typically associated with "to neglect, to be negligent, to be idle" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to failing to do something that should be done, often due to laziness or carelessness. Can imply a lack of effort or responsibility..
On the other hand, おろそかにする (おろそかにする (orosoka ni suru)) maps to "to neglect, to be negligent, to slight" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Means to treat something lightly, carelessly, or not give it proper attention, often leading to negative consequences if it's something important.. A literal translation of "neglect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "怠る"
勉強を怠ると、試験に落ちるだろう。
If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.
Bilingual Context for "おろそかにする"
健康をおろそかにすると、病気になってしまう。
If you neglect your health, you will get sick.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "勉強を ＿＿＿ と、試験に落ちるだろう。" (Meaning: "If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "怠る" fits here because it means "to neglect, to be negligent, to be idle" in the context of: "If you neglect your studies, you will probably fail the exam.". "おろそかにする" represents "to neglect, to be negligent, to slight".